Through my brown eyes: Niuean school boys’ experiences in two New Zealand secondary schools

This article describes a study that captured the voices of six Niuean boys and their views on senior secondary schooling and the pursuit of higher education in New Zealand. Their tutala give insight into their relationships, identity, career goals, family support, and church life. With growing emphasis on culturally responsive pedagogy, this study began with the premise that, while Pasifika students share some similar experiences and expectations, it is important to understand differences between Pacific nations’ communities and identities. The boys’ uniquely Niuean narratives demonstrate that, while they and their Niuean family members have clear aspirations regarding post-secondary study, the boys’ ability to join the dots between senior secondary and tertiary pathways is limited by the level of culturally responsive support, mentoring, and advice available to them.